Digitalization could assist the construction industry reducing its carbon emissions

It is well known that the global construction industry significantly contributes to the world's carbon footprint, with both building construction and operation being accountable for nearly 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions, making them the largest emitter. Specifically, buildings account for about 39% of total global energy-related carbon emissions, with approximately 11% of these being scope 3 emissions, or indirect emissions from the entire value chain, including the extraction, manufacture, delivery, installation, and disposal of construction materials.

Up until now, the complexity and fragmentation of the construction industry have hindered the adoption of technology. Nevertheless, many professionals in the sector are currently exploring new methods and technologies to improve building performance and decrease carbon emissions. Transitioning from analog to digital construction processes allows builders to finish projects faster, more efficiently, and with reduced material waste.

As environmental concerns drive demand for change, industry workers must be educated and skilled in new technological practices. The importance of this shift cannot be overstated, while advances in construction technology now present an opportunity for the industry to transform from a major problem to a key solution in reducing emissions.

There is substantial opportunity to reduce carbon emissions on construction sites by minimizing waste. These digital tools can notably reduce the use of paper, which is still widespread, by providing a digital audit trail for all documentation. The use of digital collaboration tools also boosts efficiency by enabling real-time communication across multiple locations, connecting sites, expediting projects, and improving profit margins. Therefore, this ongoing digitalization of construction workflows and processes will significantly enhance the industry's sustainability.

Furthermore, various digital tools are available to help project teams monitor and optimize energy use, addressing another significant issue related to the construction industry's carbon footprint. By understanding building performance, particularly in terms of energy use and thermal efficiency, the industry can enhance the design of buildings. Altogether, these tools reduce risk, enable more effective project management, and increase stakeholder awareness of how the industry can minimize its environmental impact.

Beyond human-led recycling efforts like using manufacturers' take-back and recovery programs and educating project partners to enhance landfill diversion, technology can play a crucial role in evaluating and minimizing unnecessary trips to the landfill. Moreover, when planning a project, attention should be given to what can be reused in the future, either partially or entirely, and what can be preserved and adapted to avoid demolition. Once digital tools and processes that enhance sustainability are implemented, it's essential for industry leaders to monitor their performance against environmental goals. Software can identify and analyze trends in real time, helping leaders achieve the desired return on investment and garner support for ongoing improvements.

In all, it is crucial to keep an accurate, updated digital record of a building throughout its lifecycle, from design and construction to operation and maintenance. Digital tools provide numerous benefits, such as creating audit trails, managing risks, ensuring compliance, and capturing valuable lessons for future projects. For construction leaders, adopting technology is essential for making projects more sustainable, efficient, and valuable. By leveraging digital solutions, construction processes can be optimized, resources can be managed more effectively, and the overall environmental impact can be minimized.